U.S. patent application number 11/000855 was filed with the patent office on 2008-01-10 for retractable banner stand with curvature means.
Invention is credited to Dan D. Berg, John T. Elliott, Mark A. Fritsche, Jason W. Johnson.
Application Number | 20080005945 11/000855 |
Document ID | / |
Family ID | 36565639 |
Filed Date | 2008-01-10 |
United States Patent
Application |
20080005945 |
Kind Code |
A1 |
Fritsche; Mark A. ; et
al. |
January 10, 2008 |
RETRACTABLE BANNER STAND WITH CURVATURE MEANS
Abstract
A retractable banner stand has a banner, a support base, a mast,
a retracting mechanism, and a means for imparting a curvature in
the horizontal plane on the banner. Typically a cross member will
be provided for supporting the banner in an extended upright
position and typically the base will be a housing that included the
retracting mechanism. The means for imparting a curvature may
comprise a pair of elongate forms each with a banner engaging area
that has a curved surface. The elongate forms can be resiliently
flexible to repeatably provide and release the curved surface upon
set-up and take-down. Various means for holding the resiliently
flexible form in place include hinged spacers, slidable spacers,
hinged form, or slidable form connected to the base. Alternatively,
the curved surface may be rigid and insertable into engagement with
the banner.
Inventors: |
Fritsche; Mark A.; (Eagan,
MN) ; Berg; Dan D.; (St. Paul, MN) ; Johnson;
Jason W.; (Minneapolis, MN) ; Elliott; John T.;
(Eagan, MN) |
Correspondence
Address: |
PATTERSON, THUENTE, SKAAR & CHRISTENSEN, P.A.
4800 IDS CENTER
80 SOUTH 8TH STREET
MINNEAPOLIS
MN
55402-2100
US
|
Family ID: |
36565639 |
Appl. No.: |
11/000855 |
Filed: |
December 1, 2004 |
Current U.S.
Class: |
40/603 |
Current CPC
Class: |
G09F 17/00 20130101;
G09F 15/0025 20130101; G09F 2017/0066 20130101; G09F 11/21
20130101; G09F 15/0062 20130101 |
Class at
Publication: |
040/603 |
International
Class: |
G09F 17/00 20060101
G09F017/00 |
Claims
1. A retractable banner stand having an erected upright mode and a
collapsed transport mode, the banner stand comprising: a banner
formed of a flexible sheet material for suspending in a
substantially upright open position, the banner having graphics
thereon; a housing comprising a core for winding the banner thereon
and a retracting mechanism for unwinding and winding the banner
with respect to the core; a post extending upwardly from the
housing; a cross member presented with the post to support the
banner when the banner is unwound from the housing; and a curved
form selectively changeable from a first configuration into a
curved configuration to selectively impart a curve to the banner
when the banner is in the upright open position.
2. The retractable banner stand of claim 1 wherein the banner has a
top and a bottom and the curved form is a first curved form
engageable with the banner at the bottom and the banner stand
further comprises a second curved form engageable with the banner
at the top of the banner.
3. The retractable banner stand of claim 1 wherein the curved form
is comprised of a resiliently flexible elongate member attached to
the housing, the elongate member resiliently flexible between the
curved configuration and the first configuration.
4. The retractable banner stand of claim 3 wherein the resiliently
flexible elongate member has a pair of ends and the banner stand
further comprises a plurality of spacers repeatably engageable with
the ends of the of the elongate member for securing the elongate
member in the curved configuration.
5. The retractable banner stand of claim 3 wherein the resiliently
flexible elongate member has a cross-section with a greater
dimension in a first plane and a lesser dimension in a second plane
perpendicular to the first plane and wherein the greater dimension
is at least four times the lesser dimension whereby the length is
more readily flexible in the plane of the lesser dimension and
wherein the plane of the lesser dimension is substantially
horizontal when the retractable banner stand is erected.
6. The retractable banner stand of claim 1 wherein the curved form
is comprised of a resiliently flexible elongate member, and wherein
the banner has a elongate pocket for receiving the resiliently
flexible elongate member therein and wherein the curved form is
flexible between the curved configuration and the first
configuration.
7. The retractable banner stand of claim 1 further comprising a
lead-in portion attached intermediate the core and the banner, the
lead-in portion being formed of a material more stretchable than
the flexible sheet material of the banner.
8. (canceled)
9. A retractable banner stand comprising: a banner formed of a
flexible sheet material for suspending in a substantially upright
and open position, the banner having graphics thereon; a base for
positioning the banner stand on one of a floor and table surface; a
core for winding the banner thereon and a retracting mechanism for
unwinding and winding the banner with respect to the core; an
upright member extending from the base; a cross member presented
with the upright to support the banner when the banner is unwound
from the core; and a curvature means selectively changeable from a
first configuration into a curved configuration for selectively
providing curvature to the banner at least when the banner is
suspended in the substantially upright and open position.
10. The retractable banner stand of claim 9 wherein when the banner
is substantially upright and open it has a top and a bottom, and
wherein the curvature means comprises a first elongate member
engageable with the bottom of the banner and a second elongate
member engageable with the top of the banner.
11. The retractable banner stand of claim 10 wherein first and
second elongate members are resiliently flexible and have a curved
position for selectively providing the curvature to the banner and
having a straight position.
12. The retractable banner stand of claim 11 wherein the curvature
means comprises a curved form with a fixed curved surface for
engaging the banner and providing the curvature.
13. The retractable banner stand of claim 11, wherein the curvature
means comprises a first curved form engageable with the banner
adjacent the base, and wherein the banner stand further comprises a
second curved form engageable with the banner at a top of the
banner when the banner is fully extended and upright.
14. The retractable banner stand of claim 13, wherein the curvature
means comprises the core being flexible and a support portion for
securing the core in a curved position to thereby impart the
curvature to the banner.
15. The retractable banner stand of claim 9 further comprising a
lead-in portion connected intermediate the banner and the core, the
lead-in portion formed of a material more stretchable that the
material of the banner.
16. A trade show display comprising: a retractable banner stand
having an erected upright mode and a collapsed transport mode, the
banner stand comprising: a banner formed of a flexible sheet
material for suspending the banner in a substantially upright open
position, the banner having graphics thereon; a housing comprising
a core for winding the banner thereon and a retracting mechanism
for unwinding and winding the banner with respect to the core; a
cross member to support the banner when the banner is unwound from
the housing; and a curved form selectively changeable from a first
configuration into a curved configuration to selectively impart a
curve to the banner when the banner is in the upright open
position.
17. The trade show display of claim 16 wherein the retractable
banner stand is a first banner stand and wherein the trade show
display comprises a second banner stand, the second banner stand
also having a erected upright mode and a collapsed transport mode,
the second banner stand comprising: a banner formed of a flexible
sheet material for suspending the banner in a substantially upright
open position, the banner having graphics thereon; a housing
comprising a core for winding the banner thereon and a retracting
mechanism for unwinding and winding the banner with respect to the
core; a cross member presented on a post extending from the housing
to support the banner when the banner is unwound from the housing;
a curved form for engaging with the banner when the banner is
unwound and suspended in the upright position; and wherein the
first banner stand is placeable adjacent the second banner stand
whereby the two banners substantially abut one another.
18. The trade show display of claim 17 wherein the two banner
stands are connectable with one another to fix their positions with
respect to one another.
19. The trade show display of claim 17 wherein the first banner is
connectable to the second banner to create the appearance that the
first and second banner is a single continuous banner.
20. The trade show display of claim 19 further comprising a third
banner stand like the first banner stand, the third banner stand
having a third banner, the third banner stand connectable to one of
the first and second banners whereby the three banners have the
appearance of a single continuous banner.
21. A retractable banner stand having an erected upright mode and a
collapsed transport mode, the banner stand comprising: a banner
formed of a flexible sheet material for suspending in a
substantially upright open position, the banner having graphics
thereon; a housing comprising a core for winding the banner thereon
and a retracting mechanism for unwinding and winding the banner
with respect to the core; a cross member to support the banner when
the banner is unwound from the housing; a curved form for engaging
with the banner when the banner is unwound and suspended in the
upright position, wherein the curved form is comprised of a
resiliently flexible elongate member attached to the housing, the
elongate member having a pair of ends and being resiliently
flexible between a curved use position and a non-use position; and
a plurality of spacers repeatably engageable with the ends of the
elongate member for securing the elongate member in the curved use
position.
22. A retractable banner stand having an erected upright mode and a
collapsed transport mode, the banner stand comprising: a banner
formed of a flexible sheet material for suspending in a
substantially upright open position, the banner having graphics
thereon; a housing comprising a core for winding the banner thereon
and a retracting mechanism for unwinding and winding the banner
with respect to the core; a lead-in portion attached intermediate
the core and the banner, the lead-in portion being formed of a
material more stretchable than the flexible sheet material of the
banner; a cross member to support the banner when the banner is
unwound from the housing; and a curved form for engaging with the
banner when the banner is unwound and suspended in the upright
position.
23. A banner stand comprising: a banner formed of a flexible sheet
material for suspending in an open position, the banner having
graphics thereon; a base selectively placeable on a surface; a post
extending upwardly from the base; a cross member presented with the
post to support the banner in the open position; and a curved form
presented with the base and changeable from a first configuration
into a curved configuration to selectively impart a curve to the
banner when the banner is in the open position.
Description
FIELD OF THE INVENTION
[0001] This invention relates to free standing and readily
dissassembleable graphic displays such as those used for trade
shows. More particularly, this invention relates to retractable
banner stands.
BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION
[0002] Displays for trade shows are typically collapsible
structures that can be easily transported, easily erected, and
easily collapsed. Such displays can also divide space and support
visual graphical displays for viewing by attendees. One pleasing
aspect of such displays is providing some depth such as providing a
smooth flowing curved display surface. One common structure for use
at trade shows utilizes a network of support rods that expand into
a volumetrically substantial three-dimensional space. Such expanded
structures are then covered with sheet material capable of
supporting graphics on the material. See U.S. Pat. No. 4,658,560
assigned to Skyline Displays, Inc., the owner of the instant
application. These displays readily provide an attractive smooth
curved surface for the graphics.
[0003] Alternative collapsible displays are retractable banner
stands. These stands are widely used in reception areas, trade
shows, museums, art exhibits, academic and research society
meetings, advertising displays, and other areas in which visual
information is temporarily displayed. Such banner stands can be
seen in U.S. Pat. Nos. 6,571,496, D468,362, U.S. Patent Application
Publication 2002/0050083, and PCT Application Nos. WO 01/91092, WO
01/35381, and WO 00/47508, which are all directed to various
aspects of retractable banner stands. These applications and
publications are incorporated by reference herein in illustrating
conventional retractable banner stand mechanisms and
components.
[0004] In order to give the retractable banner stands depth, those
using banner stands often arrange and connect a series of banner
stands, giving the collective series such depth. When arranged in
this manner, the series creates a multi-faceted display, each facet
containing a portion of an overall display. This provides an
attractive display, but due to the nature of retractable banners,
each banner forms a planar facet that is flat. This can be
distracting and can present an awkward looking graphic,
particularly where an image is continuous between the adjacent
facets.
[0005] It would be desirable that the retractable banner stands
include means to impart a smooth curve to the banner so that a
single banner stand can have the aforementioned depth and welcoming
feel. It would also desirable that the banner stand include a
connection mechanism that provides for the easy removal or exchange
of banners from the core or retractor or from the leader. Moreover,
it is desirable that the retractable banner stand can be quickly
and easily assembled and disassembled to accommodate a variety of
display sizes and configurations, storage, and transportation to
another site. It is also desirable that two or more of the
retractable banner stands with curvature means can be placed
adjacent to one another and securely connected so that a series of
banners creates a semicircle, arc, or overall curved
appearance.
SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION
[0006] A preferred embodiment of the present invention comprises a
banner, a support base, cross member, a retracting mechanism, and a
means for imparting a curvature in the horizontal plane on the
banner. Typically, a cross member will be provided for supporting
the banner in an extended upright position and the base will be a
housing that included the retracting mechanism. The means for
imparting a curvature may comprise a pair of elongate forms each
with a banner engaging area that has a curved surface. The elongate
forms can be resiliently flexible to repeatably provide and release
the curved surface upon set-up and take-down. Various means for
holding the resiliently flexible form in place include hinged
spacers, slidable spacers, hinged form, or a slidable form
connected to the base. Alternatively, the curved surface may be
fixed and insertable into engagement with the banner, cross member,
or both that imparts the curve to the banner. The means could also
comprise a flexible retracting core mechanism and corresponding
form attached the cross member also imparting a curve on the
banner.
[0007] A feature and advantage of particular embodiments of the
invention is that the retractable banner stand includes a means to
impart a curve to the banner while it is being dispensed from a
retractor or once it has been fully dispensed from a retractor. By
doing so, a single banner stand has depth and feel, thus attracting
attention and inviting consumers and attendees to visit the booth
or display.
[0008] Another feature and advantage of particular embodiments of
the invention is that the banner stand includes a connection
mechanism that provides for the easy removal or exchange of banners
from the core or from the leader. Advertisers or promoters can
change banners with minimal effort, thus saving them time and
allowing them to easily change displays during the course of a
tradeshow or event.
[0009] Another feature and advantage of particular embodiments of
the invention is that the retractable banner stand with curvature
means can be quickly and easily assembled and disassembled to
accommodate a variety of display sizes and configurations, storage,
and transportation to another site.
[0010] Another feature and advantage of particular embodiments of
the invention is that two or more of the retractable banner stands
with curvature means can be placed adjacent to one another and may
be connected so that a series of banners create a semicircle or
arc. By doing so, the display may be continuous and smooth from one
display banner to the next adjacent banner.
BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0011] FIG. 1 is a front perspective view of a retractable banner
stand according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0012] FIG. 2 is a rear perspective view of a retractable banner
stand according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0013] FIG. 3 is a rear perspective view of the banner of a
retractable banner stand according to an embodiment of the present
invention;
[0014] FIG. 4 is a rear perspective view of the banner of a
retractable banner stand according to an embodiment of the present
invention;
[0015] FIG. 5 is a side elevation view of a retractable banner
stand according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0016] FIG. 6 is a is a rear perspective view of the base of a
retractable banner stand according to an embodiment of the present
invention;
[0017] FIG. 7 is a is a front perspective view of the base of a
retractable banner stand according to an embodiment of the present
invention;
[0018] FIG. 8 is a is a perspective view of the retractor or core
of a retractable banner stand according to an embodiment of the
present invention;
[0019] FIG. 9 is a rear perspective view of a retractable banner
stand according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0020] FIG. 10 is a side perspective view of the base of a
retractable banner stand according to an embodiment of the present
invention;
[0021] FIG. 11 is a top view of the base of a retractable banner
stand according to an embodiment of the present invention depicting
a means for providing curvature to the banner;
[0022] FIG. 12 is a rear perspective view of the banner of a
retractable banner stand according to an embodiment of the present
invention;
[0023] FIG. 13 is a rear perspective view of the banner of a
retractable banner stand according to an embodiment of the present
invention;
[0024] FIG. 14 is a rear perspective view of a retractable banner
stand according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0025] FIG. 15 is a side perspective view of the base of a
retractable banner stand according to an embodiment of the present
invention;
[0026] FIG. 16 is a top view of the base of a retractable banner
stand according to an embodiment of the present invention depicting
a means for providing curvature to the banner;
[0027] FIG. 17 is a front perspective view of a retractable banner
stand according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0028] FIG. 18 is a side perspective view of a retractable banner
stand according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0029] FIG. 19 is a top view of the base of a retractable banner
stand according to an embodiment of the present invention depicting
a means for providing curvature to the banner;
[0030] FIG. 20 is a front perspective view of the banner of a
retractable banner stand according to an embodiment of the present
invention;
[0031] FIG. 21 is a front perspective view of the banner of a
retractable banner stand according to an embodiment of the present
invention;
[0032] FIG. 22 is a rear perspective view of an embodiment
utilizing rigid curvature means at the top and bottom of the
banner;
[0033] FIG. 23 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the
invention using a plurality of retractable banner stands;
[0034] FIG. 24 is a pictorial drawing showing a banner stand in
various stages of assembly;
[0035] FIG. 25 is a side perspective view of a retractable banner
stand according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0036] FIG. 26 is a top view of the base of a retractable banner
stand according to an embodiment of the present invention depicting
a means for providing curvature to the banner;
[0037] FIG. 27 is a side perspective view of a retractable banner
stand according to an embodiment of the present invention;
[0038] FIG. 28 is a perspective view of an embodiment of the
invention using a plurality of retractable banner stands;
[0039] FIG. 29 is a top view of an embodiment of the invention
using a plurality of retractable banner stands; and
[0040] FIG. 30 is a top view of the base of a retractable banner
stand according to an embodiment of the present invention depicting
a means for providing curvature to the banner.
DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS
[0041] As can be seen in FIGS. 1-2, a retractable banner stand 10
according to the present invention generally comprises a banner 12
preferably having graphics, a base 14, and a post 18 having a cross
member 16. While the retractable banner stands 10 in FIGS. 1-2 are
depicted in a fully dispensed or erected upright mode, a
retractable banner stand 10 in a fully retracted or collapsed
transport mode can be seen in FIGS. 6-7.
[0042] When used herein, "substantially" includes precisely the
characteristic or value identified. "Connect" and other forms of
the word, does not require direct physical contact and intermediate
components may be present.
[0043] As depicted in FIGS. 3-5, the banner 12 of the present
invention preferably comprises a sheet 20 having a banner width 22,
a leader or lead-in portion 21 connected to a bottom end 26 of the
sheet 20 at a junction 23, an exchange member 24 connected to the
leader 21 opposite the junction 23, and a header 28 located on the
sheet 20 opposite the bottom end 26. The banner 12 preferably
further includes a pocket 30 proximate the header 28 and a top
strip 32 slidably engaging and fitting within the pocket 30. In an
embodiment of the present invention in which the graphics are
printed onto the banner 12 using a printer, such as an ink-jet or
laser printer, the pocket 30 is not required. In this embodiment,
the bottom end 26 of the sheet 20 can be taped directly to an
exchange member 24.
[0044] The sheet 20 is preferably fabricated using a
flexible-foldable material such poplin, but can be made out a
number of materials including, but not limited to, various
textiles, polyplastic, and Lycra. The leader is preferably
fabricated using a stretchable material such as Lycra, but can be
made out a number of materials. The leader material is preferably
more stretchable than the banner material by more than 20% and has
a warp stretch between 135 and 165 at 30 lbs The leader material
preferably has a side stretch between 70 and 90 at 30 lbs. These
stretch values are obtained using a stretch test performed per ASTM
D4964While the preferred embodiment of the banner 12 comprises a
stretchable leader 21, it is contemplated that the sheet 20 be
fabricated using a stretchable material such as Lycra, the sheet
being connected to the exchange member 24 at the bottom end 26,
thus eliminating the need for a leader 21. In this embodiment,
while it is preferably that the sheet 20 be made out a stretchable
material such as Lycra, it could be made out of a number of
materials. The exchange member is preferably constructed of
plastic, but can be made out a number of materials including, but
not limited to, steel, extruded aluminum, or other materials. While
the exchange member 24 as depicted in FIG. 5 is connected to the
bottom end 26 using stitches 27, the exchange member 24 can be
connected to the sheet 20 by any number of means, including, but
not limited to, tape, rivets, staples, screws, or any other
means.
[0045] As depicted in FIGS. 6-7, the base 14 of the present
invention preferably comprises a housing 42 comprising a top 44, a
bottom 46, a front 48, and a rear 50. The housing 42 further
comprises a first housing end 52 and a second housing end 54, the
distance between the housing ends 52, 54 defining a housing width
56. The housing 42 is enclosed at the first housing end 52 by a
first plate 58 and at the second housing end 54 by a second plate
60, the plates 58, 60 preferably being connected to the housing 42
using screws. Alternatively, the plates 58, 60 can be connected to
the housing 42 using bolts, rivets, snaps, or weldaments. As can be
seen in FIG. 10, the plates 58, 60 each preferably include a tab
aperture 62. The housing 42 further preferably includes a banner
slot 64 extending substantially from the first housing end 52 to
the second housing end 54. The housing is preferably constructed of
extruded aluminum, but can be made out a number of materials
including, but not limited to, sheet metal or various polymers.
[0046] In a preferred embodiment of the present invention, the base
14 also preferably comprises at least one foot 66 for stabilizing
the retractable banner stand 10. As depicted in FIG. 7, when the
retractable banner stand 10 is not in use and in a fully retracted
position, the at least one foot 66 is arranged so that it is
substantially parallel the housing 42. Once the retractable banner
stand 10 is in use and in a dispensed position, the at least one
foot 66 is arranged so that it is substantially perpendicular the
housing 42, as depicted in FIG. 6. In this position, the at least
one foot 66 gives stability to the retractable banner stand 10. The
feet 66 contact the floor surface or tabletop surface. Such feet
may be removable or pivotal for folding up the base for
transportation and storage. In another embodiment of the present
invention, the at least one foot 66 is snapped, pivoted, or slid
onto the ends 52, 54 of the housing 42.
[0047] The base 14 further comprises a retractor mechanism 68 as
depicted in FIGS. 5 and 8. The retractor mechanism 68 preferably
comprises a core 70, a first retractor end 72, and a second
retractor end 74, the distance between the ends defining a
retractor width 76. The retractor mechanism is preferably spring
loaded and utilizes componentry not shown herein in detail but well
known in the art. See, for example, U.S. Pat. No. 6,571,496
incorporated herein by reference. The retractor width 76 is
preferably substantially equal to the housing width 56 and slightly
larger than the banner width 22. The core 70 comprises a channel 78
preferably extending from the first retractor end 72 to the second
retractor end 74. The retractor mechanism 68 also preferably
comprises a first tab 80 extending beyond the first retractor end
72 and a second tab 82 extending beyond the second retractor end
74. The tabs 80, 82 are preferably slightly smaller in size than
the tab aperture 62.
[0048] As depicted in FIG. 5, the leader 21 or sheet 20 may be
connected to the retractor mechanism 68 by first slidably engaging
the exchange member 24 with the channel 78. Once the exchange
member 24 engages the channel 78, the sheet 20 can then be wound
onto the core 70 creating a banner roll 84, which preferably has a
round profile. The channel 78 preferably comprises a retaining
feature (not depicted in the figures) to retain the exchange member
24 from slipping out of the core 70 when there is no load on the
retractor 68. It is also contemplated that the bottom end 26 of the
banner includes a leader 21 made of the sheet 20. The leader would
slidably engage with the channel 78 in order to connect the banner
12 to the retractor 68 in an alternative manner.
[0049] In another embodiment, the leader 21 may be connected
directly to the core 70. In this embodiment, the banner 12
comprises an exchange member 24 having a first exchange member
portion and a second exchange member portion. The first exchange
member portion is connected to the leader 21 opposite where the
leader 21 is connected to the core 70. The second exchange member
portion is connected to the sheet 20 opposite the header 28. When
one using the retractable banner stand 10 desires to change the
sheet 20, she simply slides apart the two exchange member portions
and inserts a new sheet 20 having a second exchange member portion.
Once sheet 20 has been rolled into the banner roll 84, the banner
roll 84 can be placed through an access aperture 86 located on at
least one of the first plate 58 or second plate 60 and positioned
inside of the housing 42 until the first tab 80 slidably engages
with the tab aperture 62 on the plate opposite the plate in which
the access aperture 86 is located. Once the first retractor end 72
abuts the plate, the access aperture 86 is enclosed so that the
second tab 82 is captured by the tab aperture 62 on the plate
comprising the access aperture 86.
[0050] If at least one of the first plate 58 or second plate 60
does not include an access aperture 86, the housing 42 can include
an access door (not depicted) on the top 44, bottom 46, front 48,
or rear 50 in which the banner roll 84 can be inserted into the
housing 42. When the banner roll 84 is placed into the housing 42,
the sheet 20 is positioned such that header 28 is located outside
of the housing 42 while the remainder of the banner roll 84 is
located within the housing 42. By being larger than the banner slot
64, the top strip 32 preferably prevents the header 28 from being
wound onto the banner roll 84 once the banner roll 84 is inserted
into the housing 42. The retractor 68 preferably further comprises
a winding mechanism (not depicted in the figures) for winding and
unwinding the banner 12 with respect to the core 70. Such a winding
mechanism is shown and described in PCT Application Publication No.
WO 00/47508, and hereinafter incorporated by reference.
[0051] Because a retractable banner stand 10 according to the
present invention includes an access aperture 86 or other access
door, users can change the a banner 12 on a banner roll 84 without
having to remove or move anything on the base 14, with the
exception of the retractor 68. This allows users to quickly change
any graphics on the retractable banner stand 10 if they need to do
so.
[0052] When one desires to use the retractable banner stand 10, the
post 18 and cross member 16 usually must be assembled and connected
before the banner 12 can be dispensed. The post 18 is first
connected to the housing 42 intermediate the first housing end 52
and second housing end 54 such that the post 18 is perpendicular
the housing 42. The cross member 16 is then connected to the post
18 so that the cross member 16 is preferably perpendicular to the
post 18 and substantially parallel to the housing 42. While the
post 18 can be made of an integral, unitary section, it is
contemplated that the post 18 comprise more than one section so
that it may be adjusted in height and can be dissassembled. In
addition, while it is preferable that the post 18 and cross member
16 be separate but connectable, it is contemplated that the post 18
and cross member 16 be connected using a pin or hinge (not depicted
in figures). In this embodiment, once the post 18 is connected to
the housing 42, the cross member 16 could be rotated or hinged so
that it is perpendicular to the post 18. Once the post 18 and cross
member 16 are assembled and connected, the banner 12 can be
dispensed from the retractor 68 until the top strip 32 or header 28
can be connected to the cross member 16. The top strip 32 or header
28 can be connected to the cross member 16 using a hook, snap,
magnetic strips, screws, bolts, slot & groove, or hook and loop
material such as Velcro.RTM..
[0053] The retractable banner stand 10 of the present invention
also comprises various curved forms and curvature means for
providing curvature to the banner 12. In a first embodiment, as
depicted in FIGS. 9-11, a retractable banner stand 10 comprises a
first base spacer 86 hingedly connected to the housing 42 proximate
the first housing end 52 and a second base spacer 88 hingedly
connected to the housing 42 proximate the second housing end 54.
Alternatively, the first base spacer 86 could be hingedly connected
to the first plate 58 and the second base spacer 88 hingedly
connected to the second plate 60. In this first embodiment, the
base 14 also comprises a base strip 90 comprising a first strip end
92, second strip end 94, and base strip center 96. Also, in this
embodiment, the base strip center 96 is preferably connected to the
front 48 of the housing 42 intermediate the first plate 58 and
second plate 60.
[0054] The base strip 90 preferably has a cross-section with a
greater dimension in a first plane and a lesser dimension in a
second plane that is perpendicular to the first plane. The greater
dimension is preferably at least four times the lesser dimension
whereby the base strip 90 is more readily flexible in the plane of
the lesser dimension and wherein the plane of the lesser dimension
is substantially horizontal when the retractable banner stand 12 is
erected into the upright mode. While the base strip 90 has been
described as having a greater dimension in a first plane and a
lesser dimension in a second plane that is perpendicular to the
first plane, in another embodiment the base strip could be a rod,
cylinder, or wire.
[0055] When the banner 12 is in a fully retracted position, the
base spacers 86, 88 are preferably folded inward towards a position
intermediate the first housing end 52 and second housing end 54 so
that the base spacers 86, 88 abut the housing 42. When the base
spacers 86, 88 are in this position, the base strip 90 is in a
non-use position and remains unstressed and is in a substantially
unflexed shape.
[0056] When the banner 12 is in a fully dispensed position, as
depicted in FIG. 9, the base spacers 86, 88 can be displaced
hingedly outward to a position substantially perpendicular with the
front of the housing 48. Once the base spacers 86, 88 are in this
position, the first base spacer 86 engages a first eyelet 98
connected to the first base strip end 92 and the second base spacer
88 engages a second eyelet 100 connected to the second base strip
end 94. Because the base strip center 96 is preferably connected to
the housing 42, the base strip 90 is in a curved use position and
is given a flexed, curved shape or form, as can be seen in FIG. 9.
In another embodiment of the present invention, the base spacers
86, 88 could slide into a slot in the base housing 42 and then be
connected to the slot in the base housing 42. In another embodiment
of the present invention, the base spacers 86, 88 could hinge
downwardly or upwardly to a position generally perpendicular with
the front of the housing 48.
[0057] In another embodiment of the present invention, as depicted
in FIG. 30, the means for imparting a curve on a banner is similar
to a "leaf-spring" mechanism. In this embodiment, the base strip 92
comprises a first base strip member 92a and a second base strip
member 92b. When the second base strip member 92b is given a flexed
shape, it slides along and imparts a curve on the first base strip
92a. In order to retain the first base strip member 92a and second
base strip member 92b in the flexed shape, the base strip 92
according to this embodiment further comprises tabs 97, preferably
on the second base strip member 92b. Once the first and second base
strips member 92a, 92b are given the flexed shape, the tabs 97 will
engage with apertures 99 that are included on the first base strip
member 92a. Alternatively, the tabs 97 could be included on the
first base strip member 92a and the apertures 99 on the second base
strip member 92b. When the tabs 97 engage with the apertures 99,
the first and second base strip members 92a, 92b are retained in
the flexed shape. To remove the first and second base strip members
92a, 92b from the flexed shape, the tabs 97 are disengaged with the
apertures 99 so that the first and second base strip members 92a,
92b can return to an unflexed shape. The tabs 97 could include
biasing means such as a spring so that they are biased towards the
aperture 99 or could alternatively frictionally fit within the
second base strip member 92b and manually slide into the aperture
99.
[0058] As depicted in FIG. 27, in another embodiment of the present
invention, the banner slot 64 is generally curved and is located on
the top, front, or rear of the housing 42. When the banner 12 is
retracted from the retractor mechanism 68, the slot 64 imparts a
curve on the banner 12. In this embodiment, while it is preferred
that the retractor mechanism 68 not be curved, it is contemplated
that the retractor mechanism 68 be curved as depicted in FIG.
17.
[0059] When it is given a flexed, curved shape, the base strip 90
then imparts a curve on the sheet 20. As depicted in FIGS. 12-13,
which include x-y-z axes imposed on the figures, the stretchable
leader 21 is stretched in different amounts about the z-axis, in
the x-y plane, depending on the portion of the leader 21. For
example, when the base strip 90 is given a flexed, curved shape,
the leader material located between the first base strip end 92 and
first retractor end 72 (labeled as d1), and the leader material
located between the second base strip end 94 and the second
retractor end 74 (labeled as d3) are stretched and stressed more
along the y-axis direction than the leader material between the
base strip center 96 and the retractor center 75 (labeled as d2).
By using stretchable material to construct the leader 21, the
leader 21 absorbs and deflection and stress created by the flexed,
curved base strip 90 and the sheet 20 remains largely unaffected.
This prevents the curved base strip 90 from creating any kinks or
distortions on the sheet 20. Preferably the stretchable material
extends across the entire width of the leader and for appropriate
compensation of the stresses, the length of the leader material may
appropriately be in a "concave" curve facing the erected banner as
shown by the junction 23 between the graphic display portion of the
banner and the leader portion. Alternatively, as depicted in FIG.
13, the leader 21 could comprise a two leader portions, 18a, 18b.
In certain of such embodiments, it is may not be necessary to
construct the leader portions using a stretchable material,
although it would still be preferable. In another embodiment of the
present invention, the sheet 20 could be constructed using a
stretchable material. In this embodiment, it may not be necessary
to include a leader 18.
[0060] As illustrated in FIG. 12, the flexible base strip may be
permanently within the banner, such as by being sewn in or
laminated therein. In such a case, it would be wound up on the core
when the banner is retracted. FIG. 13 shows an alternative
resiliently flexible rod 105 instead of the flexible strip, placed
in a pair of pockets 107 in the banner. Such pockets can be
configured to impart a stress to an otherwise straight rod to
provide a curvature. For example, the distance between in inside
ends of the pair of pockets may be less than the length of the
unflexed rod, whereby placement of the rod in the pockets imparts
the curvature to the rod. Such a resiliently flexible rod may also
be used at the top of the banner for providing curvature there.
[0061] As depicted in FIG. 6, the retractable banner stand 10
according to this first embodiment also comprises a first header
spacer 102 hingedly connected to a first mast end 104 and a second
header spacer 106 hingedly connected to a second mast end 108. When
the banner 12 is in a fully retracted position, the spacers 102,
106 are preferably folded inward towards a position intermediate
the first mast end 104 and second mast end 108 so that the header
spacers 102, 106 abut the cross member 16. When the header spacers
102, 106 are in this position, the top strip 32 remains unstressed
and is in a substantially unflexed position.
[0062] When the banner 12 is in a fully dispensed position, a
header center 39 is connected to a mast center 109 using a hook,
snap, rivet, or similar means. In order to connect the header
center 39 to the mast center 109, there is preferably a cutout in
the pocket (not depicted in the figures) providing access to the
header center 39. In addition, once the top strip 32 is connected
to the cross member 16, the header spacers 102, 106 can be hinged
outward so that they are perpendicular with the cross member 16.
Once the header spacers 102, 106 are in this position, the first
header spacer 102 engages a third eyelet 36 located on the first
header end 34 and the second base spacer 106 engages an fourth
eyelet 40 located on the second header end 38. Because the header
center 39 is first preferably connected to the mast center 109, the
top strip 32 is then in given a flexed, curved shape or form, as
can be seen in FIG. 14.
[0063] The top strip 32 preferably has a cross-section with a
greater dimension in a first plane and a lesser dimension in a
second plane that is perpendicular to the first plane. The greater
dimension is preferably at least four times the lesser dimension
whereby the top strip 32 is more readily flexible in the plane of
the lesser dimension and wherein the plane of the lesser dimension
is substantially horizontal when the retractable banner stand 12 is
erected into the upright mode. While the top strip 32 has been
described as having a greater dimension in a first plane and a
lesser dimension in a second plane that is perpendicular to the
first plane, in another embodiment the base strip could be a rod,
cylinder, or wire.
[0064] The cross member can be a rigid form and have the curvature
means accomplished by simply utilizing a curved cross member and
suitably attaching the top of the banner thereto.
[0065] In a second embodiment of the present invention, as depicted
in FIG. 15, the base spacers 86, 88 are slidably connected to the
housing 42 and fixedly connected to the base strip ends 92, 94. In
this embodiment, the base spacers 86, 88 are retained within the
housing 42 or plates 58, 60 when a user does not wish in impart
curvature to the banner 12 or while a user is dispensing the banner
12 from the retractor. When a user desires to impart curvature to
the banner 12, the base spacers 86, 88 are released from the
retained position and slid out into an extended position. The base
spacers 86, 88 can then be locked in their extended position. Once
the base spacers 86, 88 are in their extended positions, because
the base strip center 96 is preferably connected to the housing 42,
the base strip 90 is given in a flexed, curved shape, as can be
seen in FIGS. 15 and 16.
[0066] In another embodiment of the present invention, as depicted
in FIG. 17, the core 70 is made of a flexible material such that
the retractor 68 can be flexed. Once the banner 12 is in a
dispensed position, or while the banner 12 is being dispensed, the
retractor 68 is flexed such that it imparts curvature to the banner
12. The banner 12 in this embodiment would not likely require the
use of a leader 21. Because the entire retractor width 76 and
banner width 22 are being curved, there would not be a significant
amount of distortion due to the curvature. However, the banner 20
could be constructed of a stretchable material to compensate for
any amounts of stress or distortion on the banner 12.
[0067] In another embodiment of the present invention, as depicted
in FIGS. 18-19, a base form 110 is slidably connected within the
housing 42. Once the banner 12 has been dispensed from the
retractor 68, the base form 110 can slide out of the housing 42.
Once the base form has slid out of the housing, the general shape
of the base form 110 is imparted on the banner 12 as it takes the
general shape of the base form 110. For example, if the base form
110 has a curved shape, the banner 12 will take a generally curved
shape. Alternatively, the base form 110 could be hinged or folded
up against the housing 42 until the banner 12 is dispensed from the
retractor 68. Once the banner 12 is fully dispensed, the base form
110 could be folded downwardly or upwardly so that it is
substantially perpendicular with the housing 42. Once in this
position, the general shape of the base form 110 would be imparted
on the banner 12 as it takes the general shape of the base form
110.
[0068] In any of the aforementioned embodiments, the top strip 32
could be connected on the outside of the header 28, as opposed to
being slidably engaged within a pocket 30 as described in the
aforementioned embodiments. In this embodiment, once the banner 12
is dispensed from the retractor 68, the first header end 34 and
second header end 38 could slidably engage post slots 112 on a
first post 18a and a second post 18b, the posts 18a, 18b being
connected to the base 14 and cross member 16. Before the ends
header ends 34, 38 can be inserted into the post slots 112, a user
would impart a curve to the top strip 32 so that the distance
between the header ends 34, 38 would be slightly less than the
distance between the posts 18a, 18b. Once the distance between the
header ends 34, 38 is slightly less than the distance between the
posts 18a, 18b, the header ends 34, 38 could be inserted into the
post slots 112. By doing this, the posts 18a, 18b would retain the
curvature in the top strip 32 once the header ends 34, 38 are
retained.
[0069] In another embodiment of the present invention, as depicted
in FIG. 21, the banner 12 could include a wire 116 connected to the
top strip 32. Before the wire 116 is connected to the top strip,
the top strip is flexed imparting a curve or bend in the top strip
and then the wire 116 is connected to the first header end 34 and
second header end 38, thus preserving the curve in the top strip
32. In this embodiment, once the banner 12 has been dispensed from
the retractor 68, the header 28 or top strip 32 of the banner 12
can be connected to the mast center 109 using a hook, snap, rivet,
Other suitable means.
[0070] Referring to FIG. 22, another embodiment in which the means
for providing curvature to the banner comprises rigid curved form
133 configured as the cross bar and a rigid lower curved form 135.
Both of these components, as well as the mast 18 are preferably
separable from the other components and/or dissassembleable. In
this embodiment, the top 137 of the banner may be connected using
attachment means 139 such as hook and loop material, magnetic
strips, snaps, hooks or other known attachment mechanisms. The
bottom 141 of the banner remains attached to the retractor
mechanism as in the other embodiments but may also be suitably
secured to the lower curved form such as by magnetic strips or hook
and loop material. Stretchable leader material may also be used in
this embodiment. The leader material is preferably more stretchable
that the material utilized for the banner.
[0071] The various embodiments of the retractable banner stand have
been described as having a generally concave shape when viewing the
banner from the front. Those of ordinary skill in the art would
appreciate that the various embodiments of the present invention
could be easily modified so that the retractable banner stand has a
generally convex shape when viewing the banner from the front. An
example of such a banner can be seen in FIG. 25-26. In this
embodiment, the first strip end 92 and second strip end 94 of the
base strip 90 could be connected to the front 48 of the housing 42
while the base strip center 96 remains unconnected. Any number of
means, including those described in the present application, could
be used to impart a curve on the base strip 90 according to this
embodiment.
[0072] Referring to FIG. 23 another embodiment of the invention is
illustrated. A trade show display 150 is a first, second and third
retractable banner stand 152, 154, 156 abutting against and/or
connected together. The three banner stands are in the erected
upright mode as illustrated and the collapsed transport mode as
previously described. The three stands have respective first,
second, and third banners 160, 162, 164 and suitable means for
providing curvature to the banners. The adjacent banner edges 171,
172, 174, 175 may be connected by magnetic strips in the respective
banner edges or other connection means such as hook and loop
material or the like. See International Publication WO 01/35381
with Zarelius as an inventor, which discloses means of connecting
adjacent banners or screens. Said Publication is incorporated
herein by reference.
[0073] If two or more of the retractable banner stands with
curvature means are placed adjacent to one another, the banner
stands can be connected so that the series of banners create a
semicircle or arc. By doing so, the display may be continuous and
smooth from one display banner to the next adjacent banner.
Alternatively, one or more retractable banner stands with curvature
means can be used in conjunction with one or more retractable
banner stands without curvature means to create different shaped
configurations. Referring to FIGS. 28-29, another embodiment of the
invention is illustrated. A tradeshow display 180 is a first,
second and third retractable banner stand 182, 184, 186 abutting
against and/or connected together. The three banner stands are in
the erected upright mode as illustrated and the collapsed transport
mode as previously described. The three stands have respective
first, second, and third banners 190, 192, 194 and suitable means
for providing curvature to the banners. In this embodiment, feet
196 are shared between adjacent retractable banner stands 10. Posts
198, 200, 202, 204 are then placed on the feet 196 shared between
adjacent retractable banner stands. These posts 198, 200, 202, 204
then hide or cover the edges of the banner 190, 192, 194 and also
offer product-holding capacity on a product-storing member 206. The
product-storing member 206 could hold samples, brochures, business
cards, flyers, or any other promotional materials. In other
embodiments of the present invention, the product-holding 206 could
be connected to a post, which is then connected to the housing 42,
the at least one foot 66 or the feet 196, or to any other portion
of the retractable banner stand 10.
[0074] Posts 198, 200, 202, 204 are depicted as having a generally
H-shaped cross section. However, posts 198, 200, 202, 204 could
have round, square, rectangular, octagonal, or another geometric
cross sectional shapes.
[0075] Referring to FIG. 24, when the retractable banner stand 10
is in a fully retracted or collapsed transport mode, it can be
placed into a carrying case or bag 182 for ease of storage and
transport from a storage area to the place where it is to be
dispensed and used for display. Basic steps in erecting a banner
stand in accord with a preferred embodiment of the invention may be
described as follows. At the place the stand is to be set-up, the
housing is removed from the bag or case; the mast, is preferably
lodged within a recess or nesting area of the housing is removed
and assembled; the foot or feet on the housing are pivoted to
provide a secure base; the mast is inserted into a receiving hole
on the housing; the banner is extended and attached at the top of
the mast; the curvature means is actuated or attached. If there are
two or more stands, they are appropriately positioned adjacent one
another and attached such as by the edges of the banners and/or
other suitable locations. Although the preferred embodiment of the
retractable banner stand has been described herein, numerous
changes and variations can be made and the scope of the invention.
For example, the means for providing curvature may provide a
complex curve such as an S-shape in certain embodiments.
* * * * *